Speaking at an event to launch a drug eradication programme in the Uva Province, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasooriya revealed that nearly 100 police officers have been arrested over links to drug-related offences.
“The drug menace has infiltrated state institutions, including the Police Department. Just the day before yesterday, we arrested a police officer with 700 grams of narcotics. We do not intend to conceal or avoid legal action simply because they are police officers. We will take even stricter action against them,” he said.
The IGP further stated that around 100 police officers have been arrested so far on various drug-related charges, and steps are being taken to remove them from the police service.
He also added that some members of the tri-forces have been found to be linked to drug trafficking and drug addiction, along with individuals in other government institutions, including the police.
The police chief urged the public to provide information about police officers involved in drug dealing, adding that his mobile phone is available 24 hours a day. (NewsWire)